FAYETTEVILLE, Pa. — South Mountain Golf Course reopened last weekend, marking a renewed chapter for the longtime public recreation site. After months of community advocacy to preserve the course, a new 10-year lease was approved. It had been earmarked to become a new Micheaux National Forest Visitor Center.
The reopening event, hosted by the George family, operators of the course, drew golfers, residents and local leaders who gathered to celebrate what supporters described as a hard-fought victory for the community and its outdoor traditions.
Sen. Doug Mastriano (R-Franklin/Adams) addressed attendees, reflecting on the course’s significance and the community effort that helped secure its future.
“It was wonderful to see so many people come out to South Mountain Golf Course to celebrate the renewal of their lease and the bright future ahead for this beautiful course.
“It has been truly humbling to watch the Lord work in ways only He can — breathing new life into this special place and restoring it as a gathering spot where families, friends and neighbors can come together in fellowship and enjoy one of the most beautiful slices of heaven in our community.” Mastriano said.
State Rep. Chad Reichard (R-Franklin) also spoke at the event, highlighting the community effort that helped secure the lease renewal with the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
“The community came together and rallied around South Mountain Golf Course when the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources threatened to close the course last year. Recently, the George family, who own the course, hosted an event to thank all its supporters who fought to save South Mountain after DCNR renewed its lease for 10 years.
“It was an honor to stand up for the George family, South Mountain Golf Course and its supporters. The course was truly worth the fight, and I thank everyone, from House Republican leadership and staff to community supporters, who stood shoulder-to-shoulder to save the course.” Reichard said.
The renewal follows months of uncertainty last year when the lease’s future prompted widespread local concern and organizing efforts aimed at keeping the course open. The agreement ultimately secured continued operation and restored long-term stability for the property.
The George family used the reopening celebration to thank supporters who advocated for the course’s preservation, framing the event as both a community gathering and a recognition of sustained local involvement.
With the lease now in place, South Mountain Golf Course is expected to continue serving as a recreational and social hub for golfers of all ages in at least the next decade.
DCNR, in the meantime, has said it will find a new location for its Micheaux Visitor Center and related facilities.
